What are the differences between a parenting plan and a custody order?

Parenting plans and custody orders are two common legal documents in the world of family law in Alaska. Generally, parenting plans are voluntary agreements between the parents of a child that set out how the parents will co-parent, including details such as behavior expectations, communication strategies, and the division of child-rearing responsibilities. On the other hand, a custody order is a legally binding document issued by a court, usually after a hearing. Because a custody order is issued by a court, it is enforceable by law. The primary difference between a parenting plan and a custody order is that a parenting plan is an agreement between the parents and a court is not involved. Conversely, a custody order is enforced by the court and requires a judge to make decisions about a child’s custody and visitation. A parenting plan is more flexible and can be changed at any time, while a custody order is more rigid and must be modified, if at all, via a legal process. Ultimately, a parenting plan is meant to provide a flexible structure and roadmap for raising a child, while a custody order is a legally binding document that dictates the terms of a child’s custody and visitation. Although they are both similar in their goals of providing stability and security for a child, parenting plans and custody orders have stark differences. Consequently, understanding the differences between the two can help you make an informed decision about the best way to protect your child’s needs.

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